Elote Salad Recipe With Cotija Snow And Chili

I’ve found that a truly satisfying side dish can transform any meal, and this is one of them. The vibrant colors and the fresh aroma of charred corn, creamy dressing, and tangy Cotija ‘snow’ truly make this elote salad recipe with Cotija Snow and Chili stand out. It’s a dependable, family-friendly choice that comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights when you still crave something special for the dinner table.

Ingredients That Make It Work

• Sweet Corn: 4-5 ears fresh, or 3 cups (450g) frozen (thawed). The star of our elote salad recipe, providing a sweet and tender base.
• Mayonnaise or Mexican Crema: ½ cup (120g). For that rich, creamy texture and binding. (Or Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a higher-protein, lighter option.)
• Fresh Lime Juice: 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml). Brightens everything up and adds essential zest, cutting through richness.
• Cotija Cheese: ½ cup (60g), finely crumbled (our “Cotija Snow”). Salty, crumbly goodness for authentic flavor. (Feta cheese can be used in a pinch, but expect a different taste profile.)
• Chili Powder: 1-2 teaspoons (2-4g), or to taste. Gives that classic elote kick and warmth.
• Cilantro: ¼ cup (10g), chopped (optional). For a fresh herbal note and color.
• Red Onion: 2 tablespoons (15g), finely diced (optional). Adds a little bite and a pop of color.

Healthy Upgrades: Swap half the mayo for plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, higher-protein version, perfect for easy healthy dinner recipes. Use organic corn and spices for a cleaner elote salad recipe, contributing to balanced eating.

Suggested Swaps for Allergies or Dietary Preferences:

• Dairy-Free: Use a good quality vegan mayonnaise and a dairy-free Cotija alternative.
• Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Seasonal or Local Picks: When corn is in season, grab fresh ears from your local farmers market for the best flavor. Grilling or roasting fresh corn on the cob elevates this elote salad recipe even more. Frozen corn is a fantastic convenience option for year-round enjoyment, supporting quick meals.

Cooking Steps Made Easy

1. Prep the Corn: If using fresh corn, grill, roast, or pan-fry the kernels in a 10-inch skillet until slightly charred and tender (about 10-15 minutes). If using frozen, simply thaw and sauté lightly for a few minutes to warm through. Let cool slightly. You’re looking for tender corn with a hint of roasted sweetness and a slightly browned exterior.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or crema/yogurt), fresh lime juice, and chili powder until smooth. This forms the delicious base for your elote salad recipe. The dressing should be well-combined and slightly thickened.
3. Combine and Toss: Add the cooled corn, crumbled Cotija cheese, and optional cilantro and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the corn is evenly coated. Ensure all ingredients are well-distributed and vibrant.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the elote salad and add more lime juice, chili powder, or a pinch of salt if needed. Remember, Cotija is quite salty, so taste before adding extra salt. If it tastes flat, a tiny bit more lime juice often brightens the whole dish without making it too tart.
5. Chill and Serve: For best flavor, cover the bowl and chill the elote salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature. The chill time is crucial for the “Cotija Snow” and chili flavors to fully infuse, leading to a perfectly balanced dish.

Quick-Prep Hacks or Shortcuts

• Frozen Corn: Using frozen corn is a major time-saver, cutting down on prep time significantly.
• Pre-Crumbled Cotija: Many stores sell pre-crumbled Cotija, saving you a step and a mess.
• Make Ahead: Prep the corn and dressing separately, then combine just before serving for ultimate freshness.

Inline Variations

• Spicier Kick: Add a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the chili powder for extra heat.
• Milder Flavor: Reduce the amount of chili powder or use smoked paprika for a gentler, smoky note.
• Extra Creamy: Increase the mayonnaise slightly or add a spoonful of cream cheese for a richer texture.
• Lighter Version: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo, or add more fresh herbs like mint for a vibrant, healthy elote salad.
• Smoky Twist: Add a dash of smoked paprika or a tiny bit of chipotle powder to your elote salad recipe for a deeper, more complex smoky profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Too Dry? Add another tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash more lime juice until it reaches your desired creaminess.
• Too Liquid? Ensure your corn is drained well after cooking. A little extra Cotija or a small amount of cornstarch (if cooking it in) can help absorb excess moisture in your elote salad.
• Lack of Flavor? More lime juice, a pinch more chili powder, or a dash of salt often does the trick. Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings to your taste for the best elote salad recipe.

When and How to Enjoy It

This elote salad recipe with Cotija Snow and Chili is incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into many meal plans and occasions.

Best Occasions

• Weeknight dinners, meal prep.
• Summer BBQs, potlucks, Taco Tuesday.
• A vibrant holiday side dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Alongside: Grilled chicken, steak, fish tacos, or crispy potato taquitos.
• Toppings: Spooned over nachos, quesadillas, or baked potatoes.
• With Chips: Serve as a fresh dip with tortilla chips.

Drinks

Pairs wonderfully with horchata or a refreshing limeade.

Storage/Reheating Advice

• Fridge: Store in airtight container for 3-4 days, best cold.
• Freezer: Not recommended.
• Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Benefits of Elote Salad

This delicious elote salad offers great nutritional value, fitting healthy eating patterns and making it a family-friendly choice.

Energy Boost

Corn provides healthy carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Supports Balanced Eating

Incorporates more vegetables for easy healthy dinner recipes.

Protein Power

Cotija cheese adds beneficial protein for satisfying high-protein snacks.

Family-Friendly Favorite

Vibrant flavors make this elote salad recipe a hit with kids and adults alike.

Modern Diets Support

• Balanced/Vegan: Fits balanced plans; vegan with plant-based swaps.
• Low-Carb: Reduce corn, add avocado or bell peppers for low-carb meals.
• Meal Prep: Aids meal prep for weight loss goals.

Time, Money, and Convenience

This elote salad offers impressive convenience and value, perfect for busy households.

Quick Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15-25 min.
• Cook Time: 5-15 min.
• Total Time: 20-40 min.
• Cost: Approx. $1.50 – $2.50/serving.

Tips to Save

• Buy corn in season.
• Use store-brand mayonnaise or crema.
• Look for Cotija cheese on sale.

Batch Cooking or Make-Ahead Benefits

This elote salad recipe is perfect for meal prep, with flavors deepening beautifully overnight.

Smart Shopping Tips for Your Elote Salad

Sourcing quality ingredients is key for a truly flavorful elote salad. Here’s how to shop smartly.

Where to Buy Quality Ingredients

• Local Markets: Best for fresh, seasonal organic corn.
• Supermarkets: Reliable for staples like frozen corn and Cotija.
• Online Stores: For specialty ingredients or vegan alternatives.

Notes on Fresh vs Frozen vs Canned Options

• Fresh Corn: Offers best texture and flavor.
• Frozen Corn: Convenient, cost-effective substitute.
• Canned Corn: Use in a pinch; drain and rinse well for your salad.

Mentions that fit naturally

Look for organic grocery delivery services or health store finds for specialty items.

Expert Tips & Adjustments

Elevate your elote salad with these test-kitchen tweaks, ensuring it perfectly suits your taste.

Chef-Style Upgrades for Flavor or Texture

• Charred Corn: Grilling adds incredible smoky depth to your elote salad.
• Herb Power: Experiment with mint or epazote for an authentic touch.
• Creamy Avocado: Add diced avocado just before serving for extra richness.

Seasoning Tweaks for Different Palates

• Smoky Heat: A pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
• More Tang: A bit of orange zest or apple cider vinegar.

Allergy and Kid-Friendly Adjustments

• Kid-Friendly: Reduce chili powder; add a touch of honey or maple syrup.
• Allergy-Friendly: Ensure mayonnaise is nut-free; use vegan alternatives for dairy.

FAQs

Can this elote salad recipe be made ahead for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep! I find chilling it for at least 30 minutes, or overnight, truly deepens the flavors for healthy eating. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What’s the healthiest substitute for mayonnaise in elote salad?

Plain Greek yogurt or Mexican crema are excellent healthier substitutes. They provide creamy texture with fewer calories and more protein, enhancing your elote salad recipe for healthy meal prep.

Where can I find Cotija cheese online or in stores?

Cotija cheese is typically found in the specialty cheese section of major supermarkets or at Mexican grocery stores. You can also find it through online grocery delivery services.

How long does cooked elote salad last in the fridge?

Properly stored in an airtight container, this elote salad recipe will last safely in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh and cold; reheating is not recommended.

Is elote salad a good option for a low-carb diet?

For low-carb meals, reduce the corn quantity by half. Add more non-starchy vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini for a lower-carb elote salad.

Can I use canned corn for this elote salad recipe with Cotija Snow and Chili?

Yes, you can use canned corn in a pinch. Just drain and rinse it very well to remove excess sodium. While fresh or frozen corn offers better texture, canned corn will work for your elote salad.

This elote salad recipe with Cotija Snow and Chili isn’t just a side dish; it’s a game-changer for busy families seeking flavor, speed, and nutrition. Save this recipe for later by pinning it to your favorite Pinterest board, making it a fantastic addition to your family dinners or quick meals repertoire!

Print